Robert P. Kuhlman Sr.

Robert P. Kuhlman Sr., 93, passed away at home on Tuesday, January 23, 2018 surrounded by members of his loving family. Born February 21, 1924 in Kingsley to the late James and Catherine (Ockert) Kuhlman. He attended St. Mary’s Hannah High School and upon graduation, enlisted in the U.S. Army during World War II for 2 years. Using the G.I. Bill, he was able to attend Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, completing a B.S. degree in accounting and psychology in 1951. He then entered into the workforce as a tax agent for the IRS serving in that capacity for 30 years in Detroit, Grand Rapids and Traverse City, retiring in 1979. In Detroit he met and married Cecile (Adams) on Deceember 29, 1951, and who preceded him in death on May 12, 1978.

Born in to this union were Marguerite (aka Peggy) VerBerkmoes , Anne Kuhlman, Robert Kuhlman Jr, Carl Kuhlman (Sandi Guerra) of , Mary (Michael) Koehler, Barb Kuhlman, Rita (John) Thompson, and John (Diane) Kuhlman; grandchildren Nathan VerBerkmoes, Brian (Jenny) VerBerkmoes, Matthew (Tricia) Bush, Marcus Bush, Kelly (Nick) Hanophy, Jill Fowler, Catherine (Keith) Miller, Elizabeth Kuhlman, Charlie Koehler, Shawn (Brittany) Rattigen, Julia Thompson, Grace Thompson, Ben Thompson, and Sam Thompson; great-grandchildren Kane, Brayden, Landon, Kailyn, Eli, Lincoln, Reid, Velencia, Daeanna, Izzy, Xoie, Isla and Mari.

On August 4, 1979, Bob entered into marriage with Beverly (Babel) at All Faiths Chapel. They enjoyed 38 years of being together. His second family consists of Katie (Nick) James, Laura Kuhlman and fiancé Erik Reed, and Sarah Kuhlman; grandchildren Soren James, Lenix Kuhlman-Allgaier, and Aja Kuhlman. Bob also served as a mentor to a special young lady, Amy Dunville.

Bob enjoyed farming on his homestead, growing vegetabes, and being known for his delicious “sweetcorn” – always sharing his crops with others. Bob was also a builder, having completed 3 homes. He was able to fix anything and everything! He was a generous person with his time and talents. Bob especially took great pride in spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and playing cards. He had a dry sense of humor and was a jokester.

Bob also had a great friend and hunting companion in John Hartl Jr., whom he hunted with at “Deer Camp” up in Vanderbilt: These were some of Bob’s great memories and times spent working together with his friend for many years.

Bob volunteered his time at GTACS as lunch duty, milkman, crossing guard, and Gladhandler. At St. Francis, he participated with the Knights of Columbus, Men’s Club, was an usher, CSA for the parish and GTCFCU board.

Bob is survived by his wife, Beverly; his children and their families; siblings Rita Hennessey, Brigid Hinkley, and Gerald (Terease) Kuhlman; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by siblings Harold, Emmanuel Joseph and wife Rex, Carroll (James), Bernard “Barney” and wife Agnes, Francis and wife Esther, Delores (Bob) Boyle, Rosemary, and Joseph who died in infancy; brothers-in-law John Hennessey and Harley Hinkley; granddaugthers Jessica VerBerkmoes (1979) and Monica Larson (2013).

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, January 29, 2018, 12:00 pm at St. Francis Catholic Church, Father Ray Cotter, Father Ben Rexroat and Deacon Rene Hoenschied officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am with a Rosary being offered prior to the mass at 11:30 am.

Memorials may be directed to Munson Hospice and St. Francis Capital Campaign.

We wish to thank Munson Hospice for coming into his home and providing him comfort and care over the last special months. A special thanks to nurses Karen and Terri, Nancy and Pat, and Munson Hospice house as well as all the others who attended to his care. Your kindness and affection are greatly appreciated.

2 Timothy 4: 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Covell Funeral Home of Traverse City.